Gun group wants Peoria firearms ordinance changed

PEORIA — A gun rights group is taking a close look at a provision in Peoria's firearms ordinance that requires people to provide a thumb print when buying a gun.

The Illinois State Rifle Association won't say what its plans are beyond trying to get the thumbprint requirement repealed. But Executive Director Richard Pearson says a lawsuit is a possibility. He says the group surveyed members in Peoria to determine if the requirement is enforced all the time or just on occasion. The association has fought many legal battles over gun ordinances in Illinois.

The (Peoria) Journal Star reports Interim Police Chief Jerry Mitchell says the ordinance was under review as recently as this spring but that review was halted when the former police chief resigned.